Imagine towering factory buildings. Imagine a space where the whispers of history echo. Welcome to the Hembrugterrein.
This 42.5-hectare area sits on the border between Amsterdam and Zaandam. The Hembrugterrein gets its name from the old railway bridge over the Noordzeekanaal. That bridge once linked Zaandam and Amsterdam. “HEM” was the old word for land outside the dikes. In this case it was in the former IJ. After the Noordzeekanaal was built, this tongue of land was raised. It then became available for use.
Now, prepare to step back in time. Picture this: It is the late 19th century. The Dutch military needs a secure location. They need it to produce weapons and ammunition. The Artillerie Inrichtingen chose this spot in 1895. It was carefully chosen behind Amsterdam’s defense line. From here, the factory could supply the army. High fences and strict security protected it.
Over the years, the Hembrugterrein saw much construction and demolition. The buildings had unique features. Some had half-round roofs. These roofs were designed to deflect shocks from explosions. The layout of the grounds also served a purpose. Earth walls and a “plof bos” or explosion forest were built. These features limited damage in case of accidents.
The Hembrugterrein has a turbulent past. During World War I, it employed 8500 people. The factory faced occupation and near destruction during World War II. Production restarted with help from the Marshall Plan.
The company later became Eurometaal. It finally closed its doors in 2003. Nature began to reclaim the abandoned area. Buildings fell into disrepair. Only a few creative entrepreneurs occupied the site. For years, the Hembrugterrein remained closed off.
The transformation began in 2011. Three monumental buildings were renovated. In 2012, the Rijksvastgoedbedrijf partnered with Noord-Holland and Zaanstad. Their goal was to revitalize the area. They wanted to create a business park for creative and innovative companies.
A major change happened in January 2014. For the first time, the gates opened to the public. Since then, more and more areas have become accessible. The Hembrugterrein now serves as a city park.
Today, the Hembrugterrein is a vibrant hub. It is full of art, culture and food. Former industrial buildings now house studios and galleries. Lab-44 offers culinary delights in a historic building. The Hembrug Museum tells the story of the site’s past. The Hembrugterrein combines history and modernity. It is evolving into a mixed-use area. It will include homes, businesses and cultural spaces.
Take a stroll through the Hembrugbos. It is a peaceful forested retreat. Discover the hidden charm of this unique location. It may feel remote. That is part of its appeal. The Hembrugterrein is a place where the past meets the future. It is a testament to creativity and innovation. It is a reminder of the area’s rich industrial heritage.